For we must all appear and be revealed as we are before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive [his pay] according to what he has done in the body, whether good or evil [considering what his purpose and motive have been, and what he has achieved, been busy with, and given himself and his attention to accomplishing]. (2 Corinthians 5:10 – Amplified) Though we are not saved by works but by grace, our works are important because they determine our rewards at the judgment seat of Christ. The word judgment in the above scripture is the Greek word bema, and refers to the judges who determine the winner of an athletic competition. A better translation may be rewards seat of Christ. Here’s the thought. I am saved by grace, but what I do with my daily life will be rewarded. No, works don’t determine salvation, but they do determine my position in eternity. 1 Corinthians 3 reveals that we all are laying up rewards of gold, and sliver, precious stones, or wood, hay, and stubble as we live each day. Think of it; Jesus’ eyes of fire (Rev 1) will look right into me on that day that I stand before Him in the next life. My salvation is secure. But as His eyes search me, the stubble will burn, and only the precious jewels will be left! What kinds of actions produce stubble, and what type of living produces precious metals and jewels? Actions motivated by faithfulness and love will produce an eternal reward. And works motivated by selfishness will produce stubble. Let’s go after the gold, silver, and jewels. It’s worth denying the flesh. Keep the rewards seat in mind as you make choices today!